Waking up in his pajamas. Jackson throws the blankets over the bed and to the floor as he looks around to notice that it's already morning and the opened door to the living room shows Elizabeth bent over to the large window whilst Bahamut was just lounging around. Finding her place in the sofas and the animal pelts.
Stretching his arms and yawning, the man got up and turned to the window himself. Opening the glass, he turns to the left and sees that the blonde was busy rearranging the flowers. “Who do you think she is? A Noble?” looking down from his side, he notices a bunch of children were grouped up. With their arms behind their backs or the sides of their bodies, the little men were blushing a bit as they looked up to the beautiful woman doing her thing.
“Hey you little shits.”
They then turned to him, their faces going into a frown as the grown man leaned more into the window and had a grin on his face.
“You better not disturb her.”
“Look Mister! She hasn’t even noticed not!”
He chuckles and looks at her. Deeply shrouded in her work, making the Violets have their own space whilst the Carnations having their own area on both sides, she ignored everything else and to his surprise, the woman was in her more reserved outfit that a common peasant would wear and was not skimpy nor revealing at all. But looking down on the young boys looking at her, it's evident her face alone could captivate an entire city as even the passing carriages and their drivers would turn to look at her and take a glance. Only those so deeply embedded in their heads would ignore her.
Shrugging his head. “Just don’t do anything rowdy.” He then looks at her and can see the woman had a small grin on her face and he just returns to the room. Closing the window and donning his commoners outfit. “I guess even here, boys are still the same. Can’t say I didn’t do the same when I was young.” After stretching his arms, the man walks to the living room where Bahamut had started to doze off while Elizabeth turns around. “Ah, good morning, My Lord. Seems that you had a good evening.” caught red handed, the man just scratches the back of his head as he turns to the breakfast table. The pouch full of rock candies was still there while breakfast was cooking in the kitchen.
A ding then comes and Alana returns with her bag now full of bread and fresh eggs. “Ah, M’Lord. How do you do?” He smiles at the Countess, proudly brandishing her more commoner look. Swiftly turning to the kitchen to check the bread the Queen had prepared. With a taste test and hearing if it would make the crackle sound upon braking in half, the woman was satisfied with it and started preparing the rest. “I am very fine. After breakfast, can we all huddle up for a little meeting?” Hearing this, Elizabeth joins him at the table. “Hm? What were the both of you up to last night? My Lord, it's odd for you to call a meeting at such an early time.”
With freshly prepared garlic bread with eggs and sausages. The party ate at the dining table as the city slowly came to life outside of their windows. The wooden window covers were opening and carts and carriages had started to move around the stone street whilst the people of Janishaire had started to open their front doors, letting their children loose as the parents went out to their respective jobs.
After explaining what has happened in the Holy See’s main office. Elizabeth and Alana were just visibly impressed as they both had their arms crossed and their posture as stoic and elegant as ever. But it's visible that they're also on the fence as they didn’t even change their body’s angle the entire time. Remaining as still as concrete.
“My Lord, the Dragon is truly correct about you.”
“M’Lord, do you attract problems like this?”
“I mean… maybe…? Nonetheless, that’s what he wants.”
Elizabeth rested her chin on her palm. Looking visibly impressed.
“My Lord… do you know why they hate Vampires so much? Even though Deus Vrax had a Vampire Noble in his party?”
“It was about that Great Library thing right…? Seems that they are more angry about that than any violations of the Human body.”
“I am surprised that's the only reason they’ve given… or would it be that’s the only reason they could remember. But of course, My King and I did our best to keep Humanity in line. We learned from the Elves and made sure Humans could live as they wish. Just that it's embedded in your souls to rebel. To now serve them? What makes you think he doesn’t have a plan set to trap not one, but two Vampire Nobles?”
“But Elizabeth, he was more than open to having met with you and Alana. I wouldn’t even think there’d be enough people here to stop two Vampire Nobles. Seeing the Knights and grunts they have. They're not enough. Far too low in numbers to even make a dent on both of you.”
“My Lord, you shouldn’t trust these Bishops so openly though. They're far more corrupt than you’d think. Whatever his reasons are, I am sure he isn’t doing this for the good of Seiness nor the Beastfolk. The Church is often a nation in of itself, with its own political leanings and separate objectives between the people in charge.”
“Either way, we have an agreement. Just meet with him, if things don’t pan out. Then we’ll call it off. This is our best shot though at getting close to the problem. The Internal Bureau doesn’t miss. It's thanks to them we got sent to Zavalda and stopped the Underworld’s army from invading. We already found out the High Elves are involved, one way or another. All we have to do is to find the contact between the Opposition inside the Holy See and the High Elves.” Taking a deep long breath, Alana relaxes her stiff posture. Letting her back hit the chair as she slides herself down a bit to let her legs stretch. “M’Lord, I am willing to go. I am curious about the involvement of the High Elves. That Morgan woman has also proven herself. Thus I’ll believe in this.”
“Hm. Morgan’s standards are on a different level as you know. Just talking to her alone makes me wanna reorganize how I command my men.”
“My Lord, you should also know that if the information given to us from the start is wrong, then our entire purpose here is but a waste of time and the Countess’ status and title in jeopardy. She’s one Vampire in a sea of Humans and Elves. Both have their own reasons to hate her.”
“That’s why if anything happens. Even if it's just a hint of an issue with her Vampirism, we’ll pull the plug. Trevor wanted Bahamut only anyways. But we were busy with Zavalda and couldn’t get his request done.”
“I presume My Lord it's due to him wanting to use the Dragon as a mediation between the two?”
“I don’t know. He didn’t really specify but he wanted Bahamut to come here and help him. Now, we’re the ones here and him, sent to the frontlines.”
“Hmmmm…” Rubbing her forehead, the Queen stands up and stares at the newly arranged flowers outside of their living room window. “No. A single Dragon can’t be enough to mediate between the sides in this conflict. Not unless he’d reveal that she’s a Dragon God. But that’d be against the rules the UN set upon us.” Jackson then relaxes himself while the Countess smiles, seeing Elizabeth back to her old self as she paces back and forth. It even annoyed Bahamut who kept her eyes locked on her.
“No… Perhaps he wanted one of Bahamut’s abilities. Didn’t you recall My Lord that last night, she was out mapping the tunnel system of the Elven Fortress underneath the city?”
“Ohhhhh… I see. Hm. She does have a lot of utility. Did Trevor plan to find out about a potential exit and entrance?” The Countess flicks her finger. “That could be it, M’Lord. This is the Elves we’re talking about.” Elizabeth then sits back down, professionally crossing her legs as she rests her elbow on the wooden table. “Both of you are correct. These Fortresses had sigils from what I recall. The Elves wouldn’t be dumb enough to trap themselves.”
“Then, we should take up quests that patrol the Fortress when we have the chance?”
“I believe so, My Lord. The information we’ve been given feels oddly littered with missing parts. As if we’ve only been given one third of the entire story. It's best if we do not waste time.”
“But then, is Morgan sabotaging us? She looked like she wasn't that type. I am pretty sure I’ve earned her respect.”
“Or could it be that they’ve been fed bad information from the beginning? Nonetheless, My Lord. We’re doing their job while at the same time, doing ours.”
“I have you three anyways. If needed be, I can just spread you all out again in your own time and find evidence or any traces.” Jackson then stands up and takes a pitcher of water from the kitchen. Bringing along three wooden mugs with him as he relaxed himself. “Phew. At least we got a general plan now. So Elizabeth, how did you treat the Elves back then, anyways? I’m surprised they’d be angry enough to go after Vampires.”
“I had them as puppet states, My Lord. The Elves were far too prideful to come under servitude of the Vampires. I knew it would be a one way trip to a massive rebellion so I let their precious Emperor continue doing as he pleased, but secretly under us. We kept our presence low but we had access to everything they had back then.”
“Wow. That’s actually super impressive seeing the Elves I’ve met so far. They're… interesting and giddy when you get to meet them eye to eye but their egos were larger than the space above us. I wonder though, if you could deceive the Elves. Can you also deceive us and we wouldn’t even know it?”
“Hah. I am done with such matters, My Lord. Your rule is my rule. You love is my love. Your hatred is my hatred. Though I do admit to confessing that I am not comfortable with the idea of talking to these Bishops. They were one of the many instruments that led to many of the invasions of my Kingdom. I am willing to make concessions on your recommendation alone. Though I am eternally pleased that you talked to us about it first.”
“Haaaaa… Elizabeth. You still care so much. I’m sure deep inside you, you want to know too. What the High Elves are playing here.”
“Hmmmm… you are correct with that assumption. But I do not think I’d be able to handle the demeaning attitude of those Bishops. If Elves were to see coitus with a human as akin to bestiality, a Bishop seeing a Vampire would be an Angel meeting a Demon.” She once again changes her stance, this time letting her arm rest on the top of the chair as she leaned her back into it. As if she had no care for modicum at all nor how she’d look. The blonde woman seemed devious yet free. “Though I find it interesting how Demons from your world are. I fell for their act back there.”
“Bloodsucker, there’s a reason why I wouldn’t let Master meet with them. Their very being is a threat to Humanity.” Bahamut then crawled to the table and sat upon the large open space as she spread her wings and then folded it back. Licking her sharp claws as she turned to the Queen. “The Demons of Tur are born to fool humans, unlike the ones here who I’d name Outworlders than Demons.” Hearing this, Jackson leans forward to the small Dragon.
“What do you mean by this Bahamut? You did say you met with one of them which was pretty surprising. Not even Demon species Chosen Ones were you that open to one." She then turns to her Master, looking at him with an indifferent stare. “Master, the Demons they call here aren’t even truly Demons. There are more Outworlders, like us while the ones in Tur are born and bred by Nature to be the opposite of Human. You know what I see whenever you interact with one of them, Master?” Hearing her have such a serious tone, the man just silently nods.
“It’s akin to seeing an Elk talk to a Lion. The Elk knows this Lion can kill it with one swipe, but lets it talk for its words and whisper sweet things to them. The Darkness, the Abyss can attract many people, but when it stares back. It takes one soul into its depths.”
“I… I… Uhhhh… wow… Wait, then the Demons here are more like Aliens than creatures of Hell?”
“You’ve only figured that now, Master?”
“But damn, why are they so dark and edgy like that?”
“I’ve seen their world. It's far more tame than the Abyss.” Jackson just blinked furiously as he looked up to Elizabeth. “Don’t look at me, My Lord. I didn’t start this.” he then turns to Alana who was also caught off guard by the Dragons words. “M’Lord… I uhhh… I have no words for that.” he just wiped his face with both of his hands as he drank an entire mug full of water, recollecting himself.
“Master, you know how the Demons managed to infiltrate our Isles?” The man then looked up the ceiling, trying to recall the lore of Dark World as he fiddled with his thumbs with the sudden history pop quiz the Dragon gave him. “Wasn’t it that they found out the weakness of your Magic Barriers?”
She nodded and the Dragon got on her back, revealing her tummy to everyone as she licked it clean. “Hm. But that was only due to the Demons getting close with our Human compatriots. One King, King Medraut unknowingly betrayed Albion. He thought the Demon General he captured was going to be enslaved by him.”
“Slave collars are pretty effective though. Was he given one? Was it even invented by that time?”
“He had one put on him, Master. The condition was, if he ever felt any anger or feeling to kill or threaten a Human, it would end him without notice. Even a slight feeling would be enough to set it off.” Jackson’s eyes widened. “I… I didn’t know it went that deep. Humanoid Demons are usually just high tier mob bosses.”
“That is why I am apprehensive even when we first met the Countess, Master. They might appear Human, but they aren’t. You shouldn’t feel any ill will when killing them. An Elk would gladly kill the Lion hunting it. King Madraut allowing a Demon inside his Capital is like a cockroach willingly turning itself over to the boot of a pest killer.” Elizabeth and Alana both leanned to her. “Bahamut… as M’Lord might already know the story. What exactly happened to the King?”
“The collar wasn’t set off when the Demon General decided to kill everyone in the Capital. He took with him the Dragon Scroll we give to Humans worthy to enter the main Isle of Albion.”
“Huh. Such are the shortcomings of Man.” Jackson’s eyes just turned to Elizabeth’s nonchalant reaction. “What? My Lord, this is a problem with your kind. You put so much emphasis on thinking they could be a part of your species.”
“Haaaaa… at times like this, I wish you all could understand Human emotions a wee bit more. But this felt like betrayal, you know?”
“My Lord, this is technically not a betrayal. Your King willingly let a creature that’s born and bred to kill Humans right into his Capital. Thinking it's subdued.” He just breathes a long sigh. “What terrifies me more is that the High level Demons I’ve been killing are capable of more things than I thought. I never knew murdering so many of them was me helping.” He then hears Bahamut chuckle. “Pfft. Master, murder, really? Killing a creature that walks on two legs and looks like you doesn’t mean it's murder. I believe you should reserve that when actually killing one of your own kind.”
“See? This is what I meant with you Humans. My Lord, you should remember this. This also needs to include us Vampires, we might be friendly to you. But as you know, others wouldn’t be as forgiving and loving as us.” He just nods. “Awwwww… why are things so complicated?” seeing everyone ganging up on him, Alana claps her hands and smiles. ”But M’Lord, at least Humanity in Tur survived, right? I think it's best for us to just move on now.”
Everyone agrees and immediately, Elizabeth’s shoes have started to tap the wooden floor of the room. As Bahamut flies to the fireplace and lights it up. Enjoying its warmth as Alana and Jackson both stood up, with him helping her with the dishes while the blonde woman didn’t speak a word but kept a stoic expression on her face, ignoring the two as they spoke to one another in the kitchen.
After a while, the two were done and were going about cleaning the entire place. The entire time, Elizabeth had kept to her seat. To the point that Jackso got worried about her and gave her a bottle of wine which she promptly started drinking from. Her shoes dangled by her feet as her crossed arms got tighter and tighter.
The woman didn’t stop thinking for one second as Afternoon rolled in and Jackson and Alana were both busy grooming Bahamut. Cleaning her scales and polishing her claws. Afterwards, they both got together in preparing the clothes for the night and folded the newly dried ones. Suddenly, while the two were busy going about their chores, Elizabeth started to talk.
“Remembering what the High Elves did. I’d rather ally with the Holy See than have them get an upper hand. I already have an idea as to what they want.” With a straw basket full of their clothes, the Countess stops and turns to her. “Already, Your Majesty?”
“I told you before, haven't I? I’ve been to the Curate Empire, Countess. Back when it was still at the height of its power, its strength was unchallenged to the point that not even the Kingdom of the Dragons nor James in their mighty alliance would even dare to anger them.” Jackson, who has his Oxford shoes on his hand and a brush on the other, peeps out of the door to the main bedroom. “That was pretty crazy though. I didn’t know stuff was that bad for us humans back then.” he then went back to polishing it. “Dang it, forgot my rug.” he then peeps back in, disappearing as the strong smell of shoe polish comes out of the room.
“Hm, and one of the many plans they had was for in case of their Empire falling.”
“Your Majesty, I doubt the Curates would be willing to even entertain such an idea. Their pride would’ve never allowed for such a concept to exist.”
“You are mistaken for that Countess. Although the Curates were indeed prideful beyond anything. They were almost realistic at times, and knew nothing would last forever. They might have fallen for their own folly, but before that. They were a force to be beckon with.”
“How did you even get this information, Your Majesty? Was it your spy network?”
“It was. My Knives did a good job in stealing information from the Elves. It was always a treat when I went to the Throne and Victoria was there ready to brief me about something they’ve found. The Elves and their plans know no bounds, with the Dark and High Elves having ambitions that reach the stars.”
“Then Your Majesty, what would this plan be?”
“It involves making sure Humanity is as weak as it can be to not survive the next End Time. Though I might belittle Mankind's innate Kindness, it can also be its strongest part and the Elves know of this. But I am not sure yet.” They both then looked at Jackson who was peeking out slightly from their main bedroom. A dirty rug on his hand while his Oxford shoes were shining enough that it seemed to be brand new once again. “Uhm… yes?”
“My Lord, you don’t have any queries?”
“Not really. I wouldn’t put it past the Elves to plan something like that. It's logical anyways. So, wanna get going then? It's already afternoon. That Minister guy should be coming in very soon.”
“Of course. I’ll try my best to hold my tongue. My Lord.”
“I’ll be sure to keep Her Majesty at bay, M’Lord.”
“Alright. Guess all we have to do now is wait.”
After an hour of performing menial tasks around the room, with folding clothes, ironing and cleaning and Alana preparing their lunch for the day. Jackson sees Bahamut putting her head inside his newly polished Oxford shoes. “BAHAMUT! NO! GIVE THAT BACK!” He immediately drags her by the tail. Pulling her head off his shoes as he picks it up. But the Dragon wasn’t gonna let it go easily and bit the tip of it while wildly flapping her wings. “BAHAMUT! ITS GONNA LEAVE MARKINGS! STUPID DRAGON! NO!” He then started to have a struggle as he had to pull with all his might to get her to not fly away.
Someone knocks on the door and Alana who was in the middle of her cooking turns around and opens it. The Minister, a young man who couldn’t be past twenty in his clean and well ironed white robes instantly blushes at the sight of the Vampire in Human form. But this moment was broken by the incessant noise behind her. “STUPID DRAGON! STUPID DRAGON! STUPID DRAGON!” All she could do was smile and hold her laugh as she took the letter from his hand. “Thank you.” With an elegant bow, she respectfully closes the door and the Countess smells it first and feels its content. After nodding to herself, she neatly opens it. Carefully pulling it to reveal its contents which was a small piece of paper.
Written on it was one word. “Deighfin, North of the city. Exclusive Restaurant for people of Highborn. Neutral Ground.” She quickly walked to her Lord who was sitting on the armchair catching some rest after battling the Dragon tooth and nail for his new polished Oxford shoes. Now with two bite marks on it. Slightly shaking the man, he awakens and is presented with the letter.
“It says Deighfin, M’Lord. It’s also neutral ground.”
“Wah… what’s that? Ugghhh…” he takes it from her and is impressed that it's even translated in English. “I believe it's an establishment of sorts meant for Nobles.”
“Oh crap… really? We should eat fast then. Where’s Elizabeth?”
“I believe she was planning on looking at the flower arrangement she did from the outside.”
“Eh? Well we need to get her back here and all dressed up. The letter is here.”
“I’ll notify Her Majesty.”
After a quick bite, the party left the hotel and made their way along the main street. Elves were hard at work clearing the snow, with most of it melting away and the rooftops and walls of the city showing their bright colors as the white disappears and the natural prettiness of the city starts coming back. Along the way, many of the citizens of the city would turn to look at the Vampires. Though they looked just like any other Human with their clothes, their beauty made it impossible for them to be fully hidden. It came to a point that Alana had to wear the Tiara Jackson gifted her to make people turn away from her. Though some with innate magical talent could still see her beauty seeping through.
The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.
Elizabeth on the other hand just had her right hand on her hip while stylishly walking. Letting all the looks power her subtle smile as Bahamut, silently sitting on her Master’s shoulder just gave the Queen a blank and stoic stare which she notices. “What? I am still lessening the effects of it. The natural eyes of a person are harder to fool when they can see your beauty in full.” with a chuckle coupled with it, the Dragon just breathes a long sigh. “Bloodsucker, if what you said is true, that beauty can save the world, then it can never be saved.” She then looks at the people, all of them ogling at her rather than themselves. “Tsk tsk tsk, Dragon. This is the problem with your species. You cannot hope to see the amazing effects of aesthetics. By nature alone, all species desire the beautiful. Why do you think as a Vampire, this is our peak form?”
She then twirls and lifts her shoulders and then lowers it. Hugging herself, she then spreads her arms open and the people around them just blush in full. “Even Dragons might have this concept, though something more different. Bahamut, you may not know it. But you have style… albeit… more entombment in its themes.” This made her tilt her head and then level it once again as she looked up the skies and then next to her Master. “What? Don’t look at me. I literally wear the same set of black suits I have everywhere and anywhere.” She then turns at Alana who was looking at the various types of carriages with large burly hairy oxens pulling them. Their cargo varied from crates to thick hides. “I do believe in Her Majesty’s words, in beauty. Art is in itself, beauty. My ballerina routine is in itself true beauty. I hope my cooking can also be considered beautiful one day.”
A laugh was then heard at the front of the party and Jackson turned his head sideways to her direction with a big smile on her face. “Don’t worry, your cooking is already art in my eyes. So you already succeeded. What about you Bahamut? Don’t you agree?” the Dragon then nods. “Hm. As much as I like Master’s way with cooking steaks. The variety and the consistent quality of the Countess’ cooking skill is unfathomable. Master, you should really learn how to cook other things than meat.” This made him stop and then continue back at his walking pace.
“No.”
“My Lord, why won’t you try to cook other things?”
“Because I believe that meat is King! Meat is all a man needs and wants!”
“Uh huh… My Lord, could this be due to your past or something?”
He then stops walking once again and then returns to his pace. Crossing the street, he looked both ways and midway through, makes a long sigh. “Yes. It’s about my past.” Their surroundings then change, with some of the buildings now having glass on their windows and front doors and the colors used on their walls now having blue and red with elaborate art of their Nobility fighting the Kingdom’s many perils in its history.
“You can only look at the night sky and pray to God you’d remember what meat tastes like. As much as the military tried to make the gobble of cancer they’d feed you on the field taste like the original thing, nothing beats real red meat.” he then takes another turn where he looks around. “We will ask for directions again right?” the two Vampires nod as he puts his hands behind his head. “I remember hearing from some of the soldiers coming back from the frontlines that they’d only eat meat for the rest of their lives… when it was my turn to go back home. I understood what they meant.” The small square they ended upon had a lone statue surrounded by Rosemaries and children were playing on the field openly.
Looking around, Jackson walks to the statue first while Alana had started to ask around about the restaurant’s location. “My Lord, you should really limit yourself from randomly going up to things that get your attention. I think this is where Bahamut got her habit of running off from.” He then shrugs and smiles at her. “Heh. Then she inherited one of my good sides then.” hearing this, Elizabeth just facepalms while the Dragon on his shoulder just sat closer to his neck and raised her snout up.
On the front of the statue’s foundation, the metallic plaque there had a year and the name and a quote. “Third Cycle of the End Time, Year One thousand one. Queen Victoria was taken by the Vampiric Blood Queen in her ruinous campaign to enslave all the sentient species. She was never found but her beauty shall be remembered.” looking at Elizabeth who read it out loud as for her voice to not get drowned out by the children playing around them. “She was an interesting little thing, if I must say so myself. Beautiful too, but not as beautiful as me.” turning around, the woman then walked up to one of the parents sitting on the bench watching their children play. Leaving him all alone. “Sheesh, not even the Queens were saved, huh. I thought they mostly captured them for ransom… but I guess you wouldn’t need that if there was no one to ask money from.”
Turning his back from the statue, the man then sees Alana walking up to him. “I have new directions, M’Lord. We’re getting closer.” He nods and taps Elizabeth’s shoulder as she gets entranced watching the kids play fight with one another, completely ignoring the man. The young men, not even reaching the height of her hips, were punching and kicking one another. Looking at Bahamut, Jackson then performs a dodgeroll and hugs the two kids. “GAAAH! YOUR BOTH DEFEATED!” The parents watching all laugh at him as the children panicked and tried to use their fists and wooden toy swords at the man. “AGH! AGH! Ah… I have been bested by such great warriors…” he then plops down completely dead while three of the young kids get on top of him and raise their swords and fists in victory.
Seeing their Lord in such a state, the two Vampires couldn’t help but laugh out loud. With Elizabeth’s more devilish tone gaining everyone’s attention while Alana had her hand up her mouth as she was on the verge of crying. Bahamut on the other hand just walks up to his cheeks and starts to lick him. The schlorping sounds of her tongue and the victorious screams of the kids was all he could hear. “Heh, yeah, this is nice.” was all he could think to himself.
After a while, he got up and the party bowed and thanked the parents. They then made a sharp turn to the right. Taking a smaller street where most of the people on the sidewalk were wearing armor and wielding weapons. “Uhhhh… did we go back? Wasn’t the high end areas in the north?” The shops started to become more and more specialized, ranging from Magicians, Blacksmiths, Barterers and Repair Shops. In the middle of the block was the Adventurer Guild, the large three storey high building with a pointy roof was imposing but inviting with its decors and magnificent carvings on its wooden pillars exposed to the outside. “Well M’Lord, since we’re already here. Wanna go and register for our party once again?”
Scratching his head, he turns to Alana. “Should we…?” in reply, the woman just nods. “Do we even have time?” she nods once again, this time crossing her arms afterwards. Jackson immediately turned around and started walking to the front door.
“We’d need a new name though, M’Lord.”
“Then we’ll name ourselves The Misfits or something.”
“My Lord, can we not have something more tasteful like the Knight-errants?”
“That would be so generic. How about The Hoboes?”
“My Lord…”
“Okay, okay. We’ll think about that later then.”
Continuing with their walk. Jackson started trying to read the words on the signs, though the logos more than showed what they were supposed to do. He was trying hard to understand the foreign language.
“Bah-baahhh…?”
“Bachneedle Leather, M’Lord.”
“Oh, nice name for tailoring shop. And that one?”
“Harbringer Blacksmithing.”
“Oh hey! I know that! Bahamut!”
“Yes Master, the Monk of Humanus told us his old party member was there. Should we pay him a visit?”
“Why not. It's not like the letter said we should get there by the hour.”
“My Lord, Bishop Rival wore a Red vestment with Blue secondary colors right? That usually meant he is of Noble descent. We shouldn’t waste anymore time. Let us get our party registered and go to him.”
“What’s a bit of talking going to do? We’re new here after all. Might as well learn as much as we can about the city.”
“Hmmm… though I cannot say no to that. Let’s.”
Walking inside, Jackson is met with a variety of weapons. With the walls of the shop having filled with polearms and lances mounted on weapon racks in full display. With special ones in gleaming blue white colors while the open crates in the middle of the store that’s divided into four parts had spare armor, metals, blades, and handles while chandeliers made out of composites were strewn about the place. In one of the displays, Jackson sees the segmented armor that seems to be made of the same plastoid material the High Elves use on their grunts. But this one, being more of an older design having exposed ropes that held the strips of circular bands that had a thin line of plastic which shapes the metal inside.
Behind the counter was a big man with a bald head. Wearing an apron and a commoner’s clothing with an armored pauldron on his left shoulder. He had a big smile alongside his curly mustache. “Why hello! A handsome man with two beauties and a baby dragon! What a good morning! If your first customer for the day is a beauty, then you know it's going to be a productive day as they say! Bahahahaha! Oh and that is a very old one! The next decade, the straps were internalized. Those High Elves and their wicked ways of using armor! It's great!” He then starts twirling the ends of his mustache as he breathes a long hard sigh.
“Good Morning. May I ask what this was from?”
“From the olden days when the Curates ruled the land. That there can cost anyone a pretty penny! Though not as armored or great nowadays, it's a fine collectors item!”
Nodding, Jackson then starts looking around till Alana stumbles upon a spear that has an extremely shiny but obsidian like texture on its blade. Picking it up, she does some spins and martial arts with it and nods. “Good sir, may I ask what this is made out of?”
“Ah those? They are made from the discarded scales of Knightmares. A warrior horse breed that came from the Snow Elf Fortresses. Not only is it lighter than metal and steel, but it doesn’t crumble when Ice Magic is used on it. You can freeze it and it won’t shatter like your normal blade.”
“Huh. Such intricacies of your methods. Though the maintenance would be hard I believe? As these Knightmares are only found with this region, correct?”
The bald man's left eyebrow lifts and then returns back to its original state as he starts rubbing his chin. “Aye. But Pretty Lady, you won’t be getting a discount from me. I have traditional iron everywhere, feel free to check those instead.” the Countess just nods as she returns it and on the other aisle, Jackson sees the various enchanted weapons on a special shelf that has a warning on it and a drawing depicting the wood capable of shocking you. “Interesting. How much is an enchantment anyways?” rubbing his chin, the Knight checks the sword and his mouth clasps up and nods. “Hm hm hm… that's mighty fine work right there.”
“PFFT. You are a handsome man, but I doubt you can get enough of a discount to get a steel to be enchanted to the point Ice Magic wouldn’t shatter it.”
“What’s with this Ice Magic thing? Are many of the Magic users here specializing in that?” Jackson then returns to his memory and remembers many of the city workers using Liquid magic to clear up the snow and debris in harsh winter storms. “Ah, never mind. Though I was also sent here by the Monk from the Church of Humanus.”
“Ah, my old friend. I guess he told of about our past adventures?”
“He did. It must’ve been a pretty good payout for you to be able to buy a plot of land and get all of this stuff huh.”
“Hah! If only. The money we got there was only enough for the plot and the building. The materials, furniture and equipment, I had to use my savings of ten years to be able to make a down payment.”
“What about him? Pretty strange he didn’t do the same as you.”
“He was always looking to the future. That man wouldn’t even stop walking even if you froze his feet to the ground. But I guess that’s why the eight of us followed him.”
“M’Lord, ask him about the place.”
“Oh! I forgot. But do you know where Deighfin is?”
“Deighfin? That’s in the Nobles neighborhood. A very affluent restaurant that sells the rare Snow Musk Oxen meat. I heard its one of them Outworlders that built it a year ago and its food is a bit strange but very tasty or so I heard.”
“Really? How do I get there? My party and I were invited to go there and we kinda got lost on the way.”
“Oh wow. You might be able to afford that blade if you want. But it would be down a few more blocks. A good one hour walk to the left of the intersection on the top of the road.”
“I knew it! We took the wrong turn back there! Oops!” He then walks to the door and then something clicks within him. Making him turn around and walk to the counter again. “ONE HOUR?!”
“Yeah. Though there’s carriages you might be able to catch a ride with. That should dump the time down from an hour to twenty minutes at least.”
“Yes please. No way I am going to walk that far. C’mon everyone. Thank you for the kind service by the way!” As they left for the door, the Blacksmith had a big wide smile on his face, waving back at them. “Heh. What a nice young lad and lasses. Now, where in the Gods are my order of scales?”
Leaving the Blacksmith, they immediately went for the road where carriages were passing in large numbers and at high speed. Putting his thumbs up, no one bothered to even look at the man. “Let me try, My Lord.” swiping her long blonde hair. Elizabeth sat on the edge of the sidewalk and as an empty carriage was passing them. She lifted her hand up and with a soft and kind smile, the Elven man on the driver seat was instantly flustered by her and started to turn his oxen on the curb.
A passing cab pulled by two horses suddenly overtakes it and it violently swerves at her and its door opens. Inside was a lone man wearing a Nobleman's suit with a wig. Seeing this, the woman elegantly bows like royalty. It made the man take a good look at her features as the top of her large breasts could be seen in her bow. Even though it's covered by her tunic, her very apparent bust made it very clear just how large her bosom is to the man.
“Good Morning. May I ask for your service? Me and my compatriots would like to go to Deighfin, North of the city.”
“How many?”
“There’s four of us. Three people and one Dragon.”
“Just enough. Come in.”
With a smirk, Elizabeth gets inside first and the last one to board the luxurious cab was the Knight. Wearing his commoners outfit, he felt out of place having to enter such an extravagant transport with meager clothing. Inside, he finally managed to take a good look at the man who was next to Bahamut. He was old but not old enough to have wrinkles on his face and with sharp features, he looked able and strong. Even inside the dark interior, the man could make out that he was slim and held a cane of rare wood with a pearl as its handle.
“May I humbly ask why there are Vampires from Rose in this city? I do not believe we have made any previous contracts with the Wineries.” Hearing this, Jackson turned to the two Vampires opposite of him and they both just shrugged. He then turns to the Nobleman with his arms crossed as he sighed. “Uhhh..How did you know they are from Rose? Heck, how did you even find out there Vampires?” the aristocratic man just scoffs as he swallows his saliva. “Only Vampires from that country are able to walk under the morning light. Though the coming of the Outworlders has put a wrench into that, I do know if a Vampire is from this world. They hold more elegance than anyone else and their beauty is as apparent as the burning Star’s shine.”
Busted, Alana bowed her head in respect. “Ahem. I am Countess Alana le Minuit of Manor Chaîne de Montagnes of House Minuit. I am pleased with your charity and allowing us to take a ride with you even in our humble attire.” Upon hearing her introduction, the Aristrocat dropped his crossed arms and also bowed in return. His legs together and hand on top of his thighs. “...” The man just stayed silent afterwards, not replying at all. In the silence, it was then broken as he opened his mouth. “Where shall I take you to, again?” He knocks on the wooden wall which then opens a small hole to the driver. Alana then had her legs glued together, with a straight back and a dignified look, she answered him. “Deighfin Restaurant at Voreious.” The Noble then knocked on the wall of the carriage and it started moving immediately.
Staring at the youthful triangular face of Alana. Jackson just looked around the padded interior, enjoying the further heat it provided. The man then stood up and held his hair as his blue nobleman's attire crusted with jewelry lit up as the rays of the star hit it and he made a bow inside the cab. “I am Lord Michael Gravis of Rentsoss Arsenal and Wine Distribution. I am pleased to meet the Countess of Wine. Your products have served my countrymen well, and the royalty, very nourished and full. Viscount Aberdail Rentsoss, My Lord, has always wondered what you’d look like.”
Hearing the lower Noble’s introduction, the Countess smiles and again bows. “Thank you Sir Gravis, I am humbled by your words. I hope to keep providing you with my family’s precious wine for as long as it takes. No wonder you could afford such a ride, the Rentsoss family must be paying yours very well.” he nodded back with such a pose, the two’s elegance was seemingly bouncing off of each other. Like two currents of electricity meeting on equal planes, Jackson and Elizabeth could only keep silent at the two. “Of course. As long as the nobility exists, you will always have people waiting in line to buy. May I invite you to a party? The city of Janishaire was once the gem of the Snow Elves. Now it's the gem of Gareth, only toppled by our cities that touch the Southern oceans. My Lords of the Rentsoss family itself would love to have you in the ball as the King’s Courtier and Financer Lord Lechester is bound to visit the Fortress City with the ArchBishop.”
Jackson’s opinion then suddenly switched and he tried to gesture his face to get the Countess’ attention. She then turns to Jackson who was lightly shrugging when in fact, he was trying to nod as he sat next to the Lord, she didn’t see the man's action correct and the Countess then turns back to Sir Gravis with a smile “I cannot say I will be able to attend, Sir Gravis. For I have my itinerary already set for the week. I also do not have my Squires and Servants to aid me for my preparations.” hearing this, the Noble tilts his head and then turns to the blonde lady sitting next to her. “And her? I thought she’d be a part of your group of servants.” the Countess immediately perks up and shrugs as fast as she could. “N-No. She is another Noble from the Kingdom. But she’s just here for the sights.”
“Ah! I see. Though our countries may have bloodshed in the past, I hope the Vampires can see that a future can be sought out between our species.” Elizabeth just nods silently, not daring to speak at all as she had a perfect smile on her face. “I do hope one day, you may walk around these streets without the need for such elaborate disguises. But my Magic cannot hope to not spot such powerful Vampires walking within our midst. I may not be a Priest, but I am just as Holy as they are.” he then turns back to Alana. “Please do consider it Lady Minuit, the other Nobles will be there to attend. We are all esteemed to meet someone from the Minuit lineage. This is the first time we’ve gotten someone from the House itself in our presence. I am sure the King’s inner circle would also like to hear about you.”
He then reached for his pocket and gave her a sealed letter that’s stamped with the seal of the city. A King atop a mountain holding up a polearm with a flag. “And if you want, I could even extend my invitation to your entire entourage.” He then looked at Elizabeth, visibly enamored by her beauty. “Lady, I may have gotten ahead of myself and didn’t ask for your name.”
“I only go by the moniker of Carmilla. Call me as such.”
Her voice was deep and fierce, but her allure was as captivating as always.
“Carmilla. Such a romantic name. May I ask about your attendance with the Minuit family? A family friend? Cousin? Best friend?”
“I am a… partner. A long friend of her and her parents. I had many business with the Minuits past and present. As I said, I did not come with her, I am merely here for the sights.” Jackson got shivers in her spine as she said such a line with a cold dead stare, as if she was speaking the common fact to the man. “Ah, I see. And this one sitting beside me? I’ve never seen a dragon before, only in books and stories. I much would like to hear about this little one.”
“Oy human. Don’t look at me too much. Master, are we there yet? This man might ogle at me too much.” He then turns to the man in a farmer's attire, sitting next to him. His legs together and his arms on his side as his body was in a stoic posture. “B-Bahamut. We’ll be there when we’re there. Don’t annoy the kind Lord who has taken us in.” he then turns to the small Dragon on his right shoulder and gives her a long hard stare. “And you? You don’t smell like a commoner, Vampire nor their servant. Could you perhaps be the boy toy of Lady Minuit? I’ve heard rumors that the Vampires prefer to keep their sexual partners to be humans.”
He chuckles. “No, nothing like- what?” He then turns to the two Vampires who then instantly dodges his gaze. “Wait a sec…” Alana’s fingers started tapping her thighs while Elizabeth was looking out to the sights of the passing carriages. “Really? Like, seriously… really?” scratching her cheek, the Countess turns to him with a smile.
“You see, M’Lord. Unlike Vampires, Humans can die… and that is a very big difference in bed… Though I’ve never tried it myself as I’ve always busied myself with the family affairs, I’ve heard that the acceleration of a Human’s moan can trigger a Vampire’s primal urges… or so I heard.” he just facepalms as he turns to Sir Gravis. “Uhm… no. I am Jackson, Paul Jackson. Knight. Nice to meet you.” he then gives his hand to the Minor Noble, but this gesture was quickly ignored. “Of what country?”
“...Eldwood. I am a Death Knight subclass who specialize in Tank/DPS combos.”
“An adventurer Knight. And your relationship with these women?”
“I am… their Caretaker? Therapist? Teacher…? Life Guru…? I really don’t know at this point.”
The trio then turned to look at him. Elizabeth and Alana facepalm while Bahamut just shrugged and continued to look outside. The scenery slowly changed as the cobblestone and wooden buildings switched. The roads were better maintained and plastered buildings with proper insulation started to appear more often, some even being made out of concrete and metal lamp posts with multiple branches sticking out to provide heat to the sidewalk and road.
With the carriage having more advanced suspension, the ride was also even more smoother than before. Jackson even felt as if he was riding in a modern car with how light the bumps felt on the leather padded seats.
“Uh… huh… Lady Minuit, I thank you for your time. But it seems that we are near the restaurant. I duly hope for your arrival at the party. I know the Marquis is bound to come too at the party and I believe your company is trying to expand into the Wool industry, correct?”
“I shall see to it, Sir Gravis. Though I was perplexed by the long line of carriages on the mountainside road to the city entrance.”
“Ah, yes. The Holy See has put up checkpoints under the order of the Baron. I have no choice, myself. The wool industry has been the one to suffer the most. I need a constant shipment of Snow Ox fur to keep my production to its current pace to prepare for the coming disaster.”
“I see that the Rentsoss family has no qualms with one of their Minor Nobles having a bit of autonomy.”
“Of course. That is why I give them such good service. They leave me be and I give them money and myself. The Vitavill family may be a bit more strict, but my skills in calculations are unttected by such mere constraints of the Nobility.”
“Excuse me Sir Gravis.” he then turns to Jackson, changing the direction of his body to him. “Could this disaster be the Reset? Or End Times as you call it?”
“Of course. The Holy See has finally announced it. Everyone is stocking up, and cities are overflowing with every commodity they might need. Our underground cellars are absolutely packed full. I do hope the Heroes will come through and finish it fast. Many say this will be the true last End Time and after this, if we win, Humanity can finally rest in a future without the peril of the Demons.”
“I see. Thank you Sir Gravis.”
“Hm. I have always been kind to Knights. Without you, nations may have no method of defending themselves. I was a Knight myself before I became a Minor Noble. Though I hadn’t achieved much in combat, my skills with a calculator is unparalleled and has earned me much money.”
The cab then stops right in front of a fancy restaurant. The exterior alone was full of decorations and banners. With large windows in the style of something a few hundred years in the future would be built. It seemed a bit out of place yet in place, with having a mixture of modern and medieval things interlacing with one another. But for Jackson, it seemed far too out of place with such a large big glass window where you can have a full view of all the patrons inside.
There’s even a chalkboard outside spelling out the specials and discounts, in Common and English. “Nawwww, that smells way too much player built from top to bottom. At least others tried to hide it.” Sir Garvis who was still with them then smiles as he looks at the very modern yet olden style restaurant. “Ah, it is. An Outworlder came last year and renovated this old hotel into this restaurant. I must say, the food is not only out of this world, but also worthy of the price he asks for.” With the door opened and the suited Elf with his own wig bowing down, the women were the first to exit and then Jackson. Who tipped his nonexistent fedora to the Minor Noble. As soon as they got out, the carriage drove away and they were left at the door.
“Sooo… are you going to attend the party?”
“Haaaah… I don’t know M’Lord. It sounds boring.”
“Eh? Really? Well, I guess so. Humans and Vampires party differently right? But dang… the King’s Financier and the Holy See’s Archbishop… we could jump to the end of this whole ordeal if we can get close to them.”
“To an extent, we might, M’Lord. It’s just that Human parties are not only far too short, the environment is also something I am not fully accustomed to. I am also not fully aware of Noble Customs of Gareth.”
“Ohhh, you’ll do fine. Just drink and eat like how you usually do it. If you get crowded, make a run for the exit.”
“That’s the thing I fear the most, M’Lord… and I need a man to be with me. A Noble without a Wife or Husband is one of the biggest things one must avoid with Human Nobles.”
“Though… thinking about it now. It could help us so much right? Hmmmm… Bishops are also Nobles too, correct?”
“Yes, M’Lord. The Holy See usually identifies their members of higher status with a different color on their vestments. It’d also be more extravagant as they could afford a custom tailor.”
“I see. Then this might help us get info on who might be against the Pope’s plan then, right? We might even be able to maybe find out if they know who it is and who in the Elven side too.”
“You might be correct, M’Lord. But we cannot be sure at all of the chance for something like that to come by. I am positively sure most of them would come to me asking about money, influence, and power in exchange for mere things I can attain in a few decades.”
The door then opened and Bahamut’s foot was inside. She was suddenly in her Human form, yawning and constantly pulling and pushing the glass wooden door to make the bell wring. “Can we stop talking? I wanna eat!” Jackson just sighs as his brainstorming was suddenly cut at such a crucial moment and turns to look at the Dragon with a dejected expression. “Bahamut. Remember, we’re here to talk to the Bishop.”
“Yeah yeah yeah, I want meat!”
“Haaaah… we’ll discuss this later. For now, ready yourselves.”
Walking inside the restaurant. There met with a fancy polished wooden flooring, with leather and oak walls and a ceiling full of carvings with gold tinted chandeliers, the man on the counter immediately notices the human in a farmer's attire. Though he seemed a handsome yet dumb of a man, the way he walked with much dignity as he saw the other Nobles inside the restaurant, the sway of his hands and hips like a full professional who has been in many important events, He lets down the wine glass and cloth in his hands and walks over to him.
“Ahem. Are you a player too?”
“Yeah. You too?”
“Hm. This is my boss’ business. Why are you here?”
“Chill my man. A nobleman from the Church called for us here.”
With his proper leisurely black server suit, the player turned his head left and right, seeing that none of them had any reaction. He takes Jackson’s arm and pulls him near the server's door.
“Look bro, don’t do that. Some of the Nobles here are staunchly against the Church and their new law… and what the fuck are you wearing? Don’t you see it's a HIGH CLASS restaurant?!”
“Geez, I’m sorry. It just seemed like there’s a disconnect with the Nobles and the Church… and I’ll have my Dragon teleport in my suit. Alright?”
“There’s always. But you cannot let that speak for you.” He then peers over to the three angelic women near the door. The one that caught his eye was the one in a gothic funeral dress with a veil that covered her face and a blackened shiny crown of the Dragons. “And is that Bahamut?!”
“Kinda… yeah.”
“Ah. Just what I needed. Look, control that Dragon. I know Dragons from Dark World are very expensive and bad with their behavior. She has to be in her best self or I’ll kick you out. Capiche? I can’t let anything go down that’s not to the Nobles favor. Eighty percent of the people inside this place can easily behead me and my boss.”
“Won’t you just respawn?”
“What? You don’t think these people don’t have access to Soul Catch Magic? They can easily permanently kill players if we aren’t careful. I am pretty sure they can also sniff out your friends out there, I know they aren’t Human. My class tells me so.”
“What? They already figured out how to kill us permanently?!”
“SHHHHHH. Yes and it's only going to get worse the more they learn. The longer we’re here, the more methods they’ll develop in fighting us and our ability to come back from death. So BEHAVE.”
“Okay, okay.” He then returns to the group. Looking back at the server, the man gestures for a necktie which he doesn’t have. Slouching down, Jackson then asked for Bahamut to teleport his suit in and after fixing his ensemble and wiping dust off his shoulder. He then looks a million dollars alongside the Vampires now in their gowns. “What was that about, My Lord? Got lectured about the venue’s attire?”
“He’s a player like me… haaah… Here I wanted to wear something lighter, welp. No choice, don’t worry too much about it. Where is Bishop Rival?”
Coming to the front door from the main lobby was a Nobleman who has the same blonde handsome look as Rival. Now wearing a far more luxurious ensemble consisting of a stylish cote and gilded buttons, he had a cape on his back and with his hair now fully seen. Fashioned with a slick left face and a shine that could reflect even the color of the surroundings.
“I am here, Sir Jackson. Please follow me. I apologize for not telling you to wear something for the occasion. I thought clothing was not that big of a deal with your kind.”
“Well… that was back on Earth. They want to follow the local culture.”
“I see, very well then. Please do follow me.”
Without much time to think, he led them to the coaches of the restaurant located on its leftmost area. With a large window to overlook the fancy roads of the Uptown section of the city, there a slim framed Priestess with tanned skin and a tucked tail was silently sitting down. Jackson could immediately sense the air of awkwardness amongst the crowd. With the Nobles sitting on the circular tables often sneaking not so hidden looks and stares at her.
Rival then presents them the free space and they all sit down. The Knight was seated in between the Vampires while Bahamut was staring at the cooked fish that the Priestess had left untouched. Brazenly taking the position of Rival as she peered over the girl.
Paul just smiles at the very youthful girl, as she visibly looks intimidated by the bountiful chest of Bahamut being right up to her cheeks as the Dragon looks down on the large Trout with tomatoes and leaves around it on a large decorated porcelain plate in front of her. “Bahamut… leave it.'' She then remained frozen for a second and sat down properly. With the Priestess now being next to her, she barely reached the Dragon’s shoulders but her eyes only enlarged how she could see the two mounds on the woman's chest in its natural position. Rival then took the ring on the table and rang it.
“What may I get you?”
“Oh, you don’t have to, Bishop. We just ate anyway.”
“Please, it's a tradition here in Gareth for the Nobles who arrive first to pay for the food. I am sadly the first Noble to arrive, and I have to adhere to the nations Cultures and Traditions whether I like it or not just as your kind who runs this restaurant. So please take a look at their menu.” He then hands him the laminated menu and Jackson’s eyes peered wide open at the prices. “A HUNDRED AERALOUS SILVER?! FIFTY AERALOUS SILVER FOR A TENDERLOIN?!”
As he put the menu up his face to check the prices of the other food. The Bishop took a gander at the two Vampires he had bought before him. Their arms crossed and peered over to the paper as their Lord’s brain worked hard at checking what they should get. Elizabeth’s mature but kind and accepting aura put him off guard even with her sharp Vampiric ears in full display while Alana’s face of concern to her Lord made him at ease, the more youthful Vampire with long hair as black as ebony stood with a more innocent and gentle appearance. Both of them didn’t fill in the common notion of a Vampire.
The only thing that was like in the stories was their staggering beauty. But aside from that, they seemed to be mere people that are accustomed to Humans already. He didn’t detect their guards at all as they seemed to be very lax and calm in a restaurant full of Nobles that could easily give them a good fight.
“M’Lord, just order, already. It’s very bad manners to keep a Noble waiting." The man then stopped tapping his forehead and raised his hand for the waiter. “I guess Four Tenderloins?” The Bishop then rang the bell once again and a player came, using powerful teleportation magic, he made sure his entrance was grand and showy while he eyed Jackson with a warning and he replied with a quick nod. Placing their orders, the Bishop then faced them. Ignoring Bahamut who's next him, drinking the complimentary water without a care to the world.
“So. These must be the Vampires you’ve spoken of Sir Jackson? They truly live up to the stories of the beauty these creatures hold. Even I am not safe from its effects with my training in the Capital of James. Amazing.”